Yep, he was excluded, but it was in fact the FFSA (French Federation of motorsports) the one who confirmed its exclusion.

It would really be a pity if RG quits from Dakar

If his car did in fact pass tech as he says, and then they change their minds mid race, would you be inclined to spend all that money and effort again? How could he even get sponsors if they see that his entry can be dq'd on a whim?